No new power for Caddys flagship, but some subtle styling tweaks and fender vents appear for 2009.

As Cadillac continues to update its lineup, it’s the XLR that takes its turn under the knife for 2009. Following the complete redesign of the 2008 CTS and the refreshed STS, the automaker is now turning its attention to a car that’s been neglected since its 2004 introduction and giving it some much needed enhancements.

As apparent in our spy shots from April, while the exterior updates aren’t major, they are definitely an improvement. Only to be offered in pricey Platinum and V trim levels moving forward, changes include new front and rear fascias, model-specific grilles, updated foglamps, revised 18-inch wheels, new exhaust tips, and—most notably—a more aggressive hood and the addition of side fender vents. While subtle, the enhancements are a change for the better.

Cadillac also spruced up the cabin. Alcantara makes up the headliner, the dashboard features hand-cut leather, and new wood-grain and metal trims are added to the options list. The instrument cluster's trim and graphics are also updated.

The bad news, however, is that powertrain options will remain unchanged for 2009. Our hopes of an LS3 V-8–powered XLR have been dashed by news that Cadillac will be keeping the 320-hp 4.6-liter Northstar V-8 as standard equipment. Likewise, the XLR- V will retain its potent but outdated 443-hp 4.4-liter supercharged Northstar V-8. With estimates bringing the LSA-powered 2009 CTS- V in at 550 horsepower for around $40,000 less than the halo XLR, we anticipate the XLR’s numbers will grow soon. As an expected phasing out of the Northstar engine is to occur in 2010, we hope to see another LS9-derived powerplant make it into this Caddy, too.

Pricing has yet to be announced, but we don’t expect much change from 2008—figure an $80,000 base price for the Platinum and around $100,000 for the V. Look for more XLR updates and a possible SRX refresh in 2010—if both don’t get the axe by then.